"Maybe," Gabe acknowledged with a laugh, resting his cheek for a moment on Skulduggery's shoulder. Dangerous the levels of pride might have been, but they were each pride in another. That made it a lot more acceptable and easier to bask in. And he was basking, he would easily admit. It felt good.

Which was why he didn't sense Erskine's soul until the man was already at the door and opening it. The Archangel pulled away as well, but with surprise that he hadn't sensed Erskine coming more than out of embarrassment or chagrin. There was nothing wrong with a hug. And it had been a nice hug.

Then Erskine started teasing and Gabe's cheeks went a bit pink, even as he grinned in response as well. "Who, me? Sorry, Erskine, but then I'd have people looking at me all the time. I can't have ... anyone ... getting jealous. That would just be cruel."